Only two weeks

[Matthew]

So, for those of you who don't know, I leave for Thailand two weeks from today. And I am absolutely terrified. I wasn't born in the US, but I don't ever remember being out of it (I was born in England and moved to the states when I was 3 and haven't left since). I know on a rational level that it's probable that nothing catastrophic will happen. I can't help but think, though, that I'm forgetting something major I need to do in advance or something. Even though I've read pretty much all the information about Thai culture that I could get my hands on, I know I'm utterly unprepared.

 

This post has no real point except to tell people that I'm losing sleep because I'm so petrified.

[Kurt]

Good luck Matt! Have a safe trip!

 

Kurt

[JamesSavik]

Once you see how cute the guys in Thailand are, I think you'll get over your anxiety fairly quickly.

 

I hope you like Thai food.

 

Have fun- take me with you!

 

 

 

JS

[Narcidius]

You'll be fine!!!

 

Have a fun and safe trip!!!

 

[NaperVic]

 

I didn't know! Matt, we'll miss you here in the US.

 

Ummm, My uncle and his family are in Thailand, so if you want some people to hang out with, I can put you all in touch. Unfortunately, they are Christian Missionaries

 

Good luck Matt and have a safe trip!

 

Vic

[Drewbie]

Have Fun Matt. Enjoy the Eye Candy

[Krista]

Good Luck Matt!

 

I want to Vacation in Thailand someday.

 

You'll be fine

 

Krista

[C James]

Matt, I've been to Thailand a few times, and I love it there. I think you will be just fine!

 

If you get a chance, check out the area around Phuket. If you stay on the Island of Phuket, stay on the Western side, it's much nicer, but try and stay outside of the town. I found that it was cheaper to stay in a nice, beachfront resort and rent a jeep than it was to stay in town, and one heck of a lot better! The tourist towns are things I avoid like the plague, and if you don't get out of them you might not like Thailand very much.

 

If you have a 4X4, you can safely drive over the bridge to the mainland, and explore places like Phang-na bay, and down the coast to Krabai, two of the most unique and spectacular places on the planet.

 

One last word of advice: don't take the Phuket-based tourist excusrsions to Phang-na bay. They cost plenty, and heard you around in a group like cattle. Instead, follow the crude hand-panted signs that show the shape of "James bond island" once you cross the bridge from Phuket to the mainland. They will lead you to a small dock where they have charter-guides. So, instead of going in a tourist cattle-boat, you get your own boat and guide, and it costs about 1/5 what the tourists pay. Also, you get to plan your itinerary from a photo book (don't miss the sea cave).

 

The guides can be a bit disconcerting, as they are Moro tribesmen in traditional garb, including their huge machete, but I never had trouble with them, nor did I hear of any.

 

But above all, HAVE FUN!

 

Ummm, but not too much fun! Thailand is the AIDS capitol of the world and has a booming sex industry, and both the male and female hookers can be very cunning in their "pick ups". Beware, but if perchance you do decide to play, at least be safe.

[AFriendlyFace]

So, for those of you who don't know, I leave for Thailand two weeks from today. And I am absolutely terrified. I wasn't born in the US, but I don't ever remember being out of it (I was born in England and moved to the states when I was 3 and haven't left since).

LOL, he's the one born in England and he still challenges my Briticisms when we play scrabble!

 

You'll have a great time, Matt ! And you better stay in touch!

 

Kevin

[Matthew]

LOL, he's the one born in England and he still challenges my Briticisms when we play scrabble!

 

I'd challenge "Briticisms" too.

[AFriendlyFace]

I'd challenge "Briticisms" too.

Oh ye of little faith, Matty

[Empathy]

Hope you have a great time.

What's a guy to do without his editor though.

[Matthew]

Hope you have a great time.

What's a guy to do without his editor though.

 

My plan is to keep doing everything I'm doing now in terms of GA. I will have internet access and my computer with me. (knocks on wood)